põhiseaduse

Põhiseadus is the supreme law of the Republic of Estonia. It establishes the constitutional order, defines the form of government, and protects fundamental rights. The document creates a democratic, parliamentary republic with a separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. It outlines the roles of institutions such as the unicameral Riigikogu (parliament), the president as head of state with largely representative duties, and the government led by the prime minister. The constitution also provides for an independent judiciary and the rule of law.

The current Põhiseadus was adopted in 1992 after Estonia regained independence and replaced the legal framework used during earlier periods of foreign occupation. It entered into force in 1992 and has since been amended several times to reflect changes in society, including Estonia’s integration into European and international structures, while preserving core democratic principles.

The Põhiseadus guarantees fundamental rights and freedoms, including equality before the law, freedom of expression, assembly, religion, and conscience, as well as property rights, privacy, and due process. It also regulates elections, local self-government, and the relationship between the state and citizens. Constitutional review is conducted by the judiciary, with the Supreme Court responsible for ensuring that laws and government actions comply with the constitution.

As the foundational legal document, the Põhiseadus remains the basis for all other Estonian law and public authority actions, guiding the interpretation of rights and the powers of the state.